Korean Dictionary
How to say "Waterfall" in Korean
“Waterfall” in Korean is 폭포 (pronounced "Pokpo").
폭포
Pokpo
Usage & Context
Korea has numerous beautiful waterfalls in mountainous areas. 구천동 폭포 (Gucheon-dong Waterfall) and 도담삼봉 (Dodamsambong) are famous. Waterfalls are popular hiking destinations, especially in summer when their cool mist provides relief from the heat. 폭포수 (waterfall water) has strong, pure connotations.
Example Sentence
산에 올라가다 보면 멋진 폭포를 볼 수 있어요.
As you climb the mountain, you can see magnificent waterfalls.
How to use 폭포 naturally
Quick answer
The Korean word for “Waterfall” is 폭포, romanized as Pokpo.
Usage tip
Learn this word together with a complete Korean sentence. Meaning often depends on particles, politeness level, and word order.
Common mistake
Do not rely only on the English meaning. Read the Korean example sentence and notice the particles, word order, and politeness level around 폭포.
Pronunciation Guide
Pronounce 'Pok' like 'pock' in 'pockmark', with a short 'o' sound. 'Po' is like 'poh' in 'poh-poh'. The stress is fairly even on both syllables.
More Example Sentences
Planning a summer outing.
여름에는 폭포 근처가 시원해서 좋아요.
In summer, it's cool near the waterfall, which is nice.
Discussing travel destinations.
제주도에는 아름다운 폭포가 많아요.
There are many beautiful waterfalls on Jeju Island.
Enjoying nature.
폭포 소리가 시원하게 들려요.
The sound of the waterfall sounds refreshing.
Cultural Context
Korea's mountainous terrain means waterfalls are a common and beloved feature of its natural landscapes. They are popular destinations for hikers, especially during the hot summer months, as the mist and cool air provide a refreshing escape. The sound of '폭포수' (pokposu), or waterfall water, is often associated with purity and strength, and some traditional beliefs even attribute healing properties to water from certain waterfalls.
Editorial note
We review entries like 폭포 for pronunciation, example sentence fit, and learner mistakes so the page answers more than a direct dictionary lookup.
Reviewed by Min-jung Park, Korean Language Teacher. Updated May 31, 2026. See our editorial standards.
Common Phrases
폭포를 구경하다
To sightsee a waterfall.
폭포수처럼 쏟아지다
To pour down like a waterfall (often used metaphorically for rain or tears).
시원한 폭포
Refreshing waterfall.
Related Expressions
계곡
gyegok
Valley, stream
강
gang
River
산
san
Mountain
물
mul
Water
More Nature Words
Master Korean with AI-Powered Learning
Practice Waterfall and 10,000+ words with native pronunciation and AI conversation.
